ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) marked its 120th global anniversary and 88 years of presence in Malaysia with the ACCA Stakeholders Appreciation Reception 2024 in Sarawak. The event, hosted recently at the Sheraton Kuching Hotel, brought together industry leaders, educators, and professional accountants to celebrate ACCA’s legacy and its ongoing efforts to nurture local talent and support Sarawak’s economic aspirations. 

Gracing the occasion as Guest of Honour, YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak, lauded ACCA’s efforts in equipping Sarawakian talent to meet the demands of emerging industries like renewable energy and the digital economy. 

During his keynote address, the Premier of Sarawak commended ACCA legacy of excellence and being a significant contributor to Sarawak’s advancement, adding that the organisation’s efforts align with the state’s vision of fostering sustainable economic and social progress. 

“(Guided by the new Sarawak Sustainability Blueprint), Sarawak has embarked on a transformative journey to achieve a low-carbon, inclusive economy, and the business and accountancy sectors will play a central role in realising this vision,” said YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari. He added: “Ensuring that Sarawak successfully pivots to sustainability will require a strong collaborative approach, as exemplified by the ideals and best practices at leading organisations such as ACCA.” 

Tailored Programmes to Empower Talent 

ACCA’s initiatives in Sarawak are designed to cultivate a robust pipeline of accounting professionals equipped with the skills and knowledge required in today’s dynamic economic landscape. These include: 

• Leadership Development: Collaborating with Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak to prepare students for future leadership roles through industry engagement. 
• Educator Outreach: Engagement with the Sarawak State Education Department to promote accounting careers to school heads, counsellors, and teachers. 
• Support for SPM Students: Prinsip Perakaunan workshops in partnership with Yayasan Sarawak, to foster early interest in accounting among SPM students. 
• Inclusive Education: Partnerships with institutions in rural areas to ensure accessibility to ACCA qualifications. 

Strategic Partnerships Driving Impact 

Through collaborations with ACCA Approved Employers and Learning Partners in Kuching, ACCA ensures Sarawakian students receive world-class education and career opportunities. These partnerships enable ACCA to address barriers like financial constraints and accessibility, paving the way for more students to excel in the profession. 

ACCA’s Vision for Sarawak 

Andrew Lim, Portfolio Head of ACCA Maritime SEA, reaffirmed ACCA’s commitment to Sarawak: “Sarawak is entering a transformative phase, where accountants will play a crucial role in realising initiatives like the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint and sustainability-focused projects. At ACCA, we

are committed to equipping our members with the skills needed to thrive in this dynamic environment. Whether it’s AI, sustainability reporting, or ethical leadership, our programmes ensure that Sarawak’s accounting talent is future-ready and globally competitive.” 

ACCA’s presence in Sarawak dates back to the 1980s, with significant milestones such as establishing its Kuching branch office (2004–2014) and fostering thought leadership in sustainability and ethics. Today, ACCA is focused on supporting Malaysia’s goal of producing 60,000 professional accountants by 2030, with Sarawak playing a pivotal role in this national ambition. 

The ACCA Stakeholders Appreciation Reception 2024 in Sarawak stands as a testament to ACCA’s commitment to building meaningful relationships and creating opportunities that uplift Sarawakian communities. Through its initiatives, ACCA continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the accounting profession, equipping the next generation to thrive in an evolving global economy. 

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